Endangered Species Act Mitigation Toolbox
| Adapting to ESA Video Series (brought to you by CPDA, CropLife America & Agricultural Retailers Association)
| The ABCs of ESA: CropLife Magazine Special Report
| 2026 ESA Technical Guide to Mitigation Options
Background
Litigation under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) has long influenced how EPA regulates pesticide use. Courts have required EPA to consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service to evaluate potential effects on listed species and habitats. While protecting species is a shared goal, implementation has often resulted in broad, one-size-fits-all restrictions, such as large buffer zones and no-spray areas, that limit how farmers can manage pests and reduce productive acreage.
CPDA’s Role and Leadership
The Council of Producers & Distributors of Agrotechnology (CPDA) is working to ensure ESA compliance is both scientifically sound and workable for agriculture. CPDA collaborates closely with EPA and stakeholders to identify practical, science-based solutions that protect species while keeping farmers productive. CPDA played a leading role in advancing Drift Reduction Adjuvants (DRAs) as an approved mitigation tool within EPA’s ESA framework. This recognition gives growers flexibility to comply with ESA requirements while maintaining effective pest management and crop protection.
Moving Forward
CPDA continues to advocate for additional science-based mitigation options to provide growers with practical compliance tools.
To help raise awareness and understanding of ESA requirements, CPDA is developing a suite of educational resources for the pesticide and agricultural community, including an introductory ESA 101 presentation available below.
ESA 101 | Adapting to ESA Video Series | ESA Flowchart | The ABCs of ESA | EPA Educational Resources
